Introduction
When we think about U.S. presidents, foreign policy is often one of the most defining parts of their legacy. For Donald Trump, his time in office (2017–2021) sparked endless debate, not only for his unconventional leadership style but also for his approach to wars and peace. Unlike some of his predecessors, Trump repeatedly emphasized that he didn’t want to start new wars and, in fact, wanted to bring troops home.
So, what were Trump’s foreign policy achievements in stopping wars? Did his administration actually succeed in keeping the U.S. out of conflicts? Let’s dive into the key highlights of his peace efforts, negotiations, and global diplomacy.
Trump’s “No New Wars” Legacy
One of the biggest talking points of Trump’s presidency was that he didn’t start any new wars. This is a rare distinction, especially when compared to past presidents who faced multiple military interventions.
- Trump focused on avoiding new large-scale wars, particularly in the Middle East.
- His administration prioritized negotiation over escalation, especially with countries like North Korea.
- He pushed for a reduction in U.S. military presence abroad, appealing to Americans who were tired of “endless wars.”
This “no new wars” stance became a central part of his campaign messaging and continues to fuel debates about his legacy.
The Abraham Accords – A Landmark Peace Deal
Perhaps Trump’s most significant foreign policy achievement in stopping wars was the Abraham Accords, signed in 2020.
- The agreements normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco.
- These deals marked a historic moment in Middle Eastern diplomacy, reducing tensions that had lasted for decades.
- While not ending existing conflicts entirely, the accords opened the door to cooperation, trade, and peace-building in the region.
The Abraham Accords are often cited as one of Trump’s most successful diplomatic efforts and even sparked conversations about his potential nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize.
North Korea Diplomacy – Talking Instead of Fighting
Another high-profile example of Trump’s approach to avoiding wars was his direct diplomacy with North Korea.
- In 2018, Trump became the first sitting U.S. president to meet with North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un.
- These meetings, although controversial, helped de-escalate rising tensions that had the world fearing possible nuclear conflict.
- While a complete denuclearization agreement wasn’t reached, Trump’s efforts kept the situation from spiraling into war.
His willingness to meet directly with adversaries, rather than escalating militarily, was a unique hallmark of his foreign policy.
Reducing Troop Presence in the Middle East
Trump frequently criticized America’s “forever wars” and pushed for bringing U.S. soldiers back home.
- He ordered troop withdrawals from Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria, framing it as putting “America First.”
- Although the full withdrawal from Afghanistan happened under President Biden, Trump set the timeline and signed an agreement with the Taliban.
- His administration argued that U.S. involvement abroad should be limited and strategic, not open-ended.
This move sparked debate: supporters praised him for saving American lives and money, while critics feared it might leave power vacuums in unstable regions.
Avoiding Direct War with Iran
Trump’s relationship with Iran was tense, especially after the U.S. withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal.
- In January 2020, the U.S. conducted a strike that killed Iranian general Qassem Soleimani, leading many to fear an all-out war.
- Despite the escalation, Trump avoided launching a full-scale war with Iran.
- Instead, his administration relied on sanctions and maximum pressure policies to contain Iran’s influence.
This showcased Trump’s approach: tough rhetoric and economic pressure instead of military invasions.
Critics and Controversies
Of course, Trump’s foreign policy wasn’t without criticism.
- Some argue that while he didn’t start wars, his decisions may have created long-term instability.
- Critics also point out that withdrawing troops quickly sometimes left allies vulnerable.
- Others suggest that his “America First” approach weakened traditional alliances like NATO.
Still, even many critics admit that Trump’s record of avoiding new wars is noteworthy compared to modern U.S. presidents.
Did Trump Really Deserve a Nobel Peace Prize?
Several commentators and politicians suggested that Trump should be considered for the Nobel Peace Prize due to the Abraham Accords and his efforts to avoid wars.
While he didn’t win, the nomination itself highlighted how his foreign policy achievements, Especially in peace-building. Were recognized globally.
Conclusion
Trump’s foreign policy achievements in stopping wars are a major part of his legacy.
- He didn’t start new wars, a rare accomplishment for modern presidents.
- He helped broker peace deals like the Abraham Accords.
- He used diplomacy, sanctions, and troop withdrawals instead of military escalation.
Whether you support him or not, it’s hard to deny that Trump’s presidency marked a different approach to global conflicts. His strategy of prioritizing negotiation and reducing direct military involvement reshaped America’s role in world affairs.
